Laypeople Teaching the Dhamma: Forms and Practices in Contemporary Society

Abstract

This article explores the role of laypeople in Buddhism, particularly in the context of teaching the Dhamma in contemporary society, where their importance has increasingly come to the forefront. Traditionally, the responsibility for disseminating the Buddha’s teachings rested solely with the monastic community. However, laypersons are now playing a more prominent role in the study, practice, and communication of Dhamma to the public. The article discusses the definition of a layperson according to Buddhist principles and highlights their significant roles in supporting the Sangha—such as offering the four requisites, participating in religious activities, and even attaining high levels of spiritual realization during the Buddha’s time. Historical examples include Anathapindika and Visakha, who exemplified lay devotion and wisdom. In the modern era, this article analyzes key factors that have enabled laypeople to emerge as influential Dhamma teachers. These include greater access to Buddhist teachings through technology, encouragement from monastic teachers, society’s growing need for spiritual development, and the role of social media, which has created new platforms for widespread dissemination of Dhamma. Ultimately, the article affirms that the involvement of laypeople in teaching the Dhamma not only fosters a deeper understanding of Buddhist principles in daily life but also plays a crucial role in preserving and sustaining the Buddha’s teachings in the modern world.